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Asian Games: Indonesia’s protest left unaddressed
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Indonesian sepak takraw athlete Saiful Rijal duel with India's Sanjeck Singh Waikhom during the qualifying match of the Asian Games at the Jakabaring Sport City, Palembang, Aug. 20, 2018. (JP/Jerry Adiguna )
H
ost Indonesia has filed a protest with the Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) for approving belated inclusion on Malaysia in the men’s regu event at the 18th Asian Games.
Chairman of the Indonesian Sepak Takraw Association (PB PSTI) Asnawi Abdul Rachman said Thursday Indonesia was not alone in demanding that the two Asian sports organizations follow the rule. Singapore, India, the Philippines, Nepal, Pakistan, China and South Korea join Indonesia’s objection to the policy.
“ASTAF and OCA defy their own rule or I could say they do not know the rule. It is an advantage for the Malaysian team but disadvantage for others,” said Asnawi. He added Indonesia’s protest had remained unaddressed.
According to Asnawi, Malaysia had only submitted names of athletes for men’s team regu and men’s team doubles events. The draw was held on July 5, but in the managers’ meeting on Aug. 19 Malaysian athletes were also listed in the men’s regu event.
A letter sent by ASTAF after the draw to chairman of the Indonesia Asian Games Organizing Committee (INASGOC) Erik Thohir says the draw is legitimate and final. The letter was signed by ASTAF President Dato Abdul Halim Kader and Secretary General Boonchai Lorhpipat.
The men’s regu competition is slated for Aug. 26-28 at Ranau Hall, Jakabaring Sport Complex in Palembang. Malaysia defeated Indonesia in the men’s team regu semifinals on Wednesday, but lost to Thailand in the final later that day.
